League City Celebrates Holiday in the Park - December 6th - 8th

The biggest event of the season is the Holiday in the Park Festival and Parade. The 16th annual event is set for December 6-8 at League Park, 512 2^nd Street. The three-day festival includes shopping, food and lots of entertainment, plus real snow in the park! It will help create memories your children will treasure for a lifetime.

The highlight of the festival is the Grand Night Parade, which takes place on Main Street on December 7 at 6:00 p.m., but you’ll also want to see the holiday movie under the oaks (“Elf”), the children’s costume parade, pet parade and the holiday market. A full schedule of Holiday in the Park events is available on leaguecityholidaymagic.com.

Friday, December 6:
-Holiday in the Park Vendors/Artisans Opens in League Park, 6pm;
-Holiday Movie “Elf” in League Park, 7 pm.

Saturday, December 7:
-Children’s Holiday Costume Parade, 10 am, in front of Butler’s Courtyard, 122 Michigan Avenue;
-Visit Santa in the League Park Gazebo, 10:30 am;
-Grand Night Parade down Main Street (FM 518) to League Park, 6 pm;
-Park opens at 12 Noon; Santa & Snow in the Park, 1pm; Pet Parade, 2pm, League Park on the Plaza/Caboose area.

Sunday, December 8:
-Visit Santa in the League City Gazebo, 1:30 pm.

More information is available at holidayinthepark.org.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Happy Thanksgiving from Brockway Realty, LLC

“Wishing you all a luxurious holiday filled with
love, joy, great food and wonderful company.”

~ Happy Thanksgiving from Brockway Realty, LLC. ~

A Friendly Reminder
All Clear Creek ISD, Friendswood ISD, and Dickinson ISD students will be on Holiday Break from Monday, November 25^th through Friday, November 29^th.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Friendswood Holiday Hustle on December 7th at Stevenson Park

Calling all runners and walkers, Friendswood will be hosting their "Holiday Hustle" 5K fun run on Saturday, December 7, 2013 at Stevenson Park.  The proceeds from this yearly event benefit the Laura Recovery Center Foundation, as well as park improvements for the City of Friendswood.  All ages are invited to participate; there will be a Kid's K Fun Run for those under 12.  A free pancake breakfast will be served after the race, as well as trophies to the top male and female in the different categories.  For more information call 281-996-3228 or visit  http://www.ci.friendswood.tx.us/.

By Dinah BuPane, Real Estate Agent of Brockway Realty - Friendswood Specialist

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Holiday Home Tours in League City and Friendswood

What a great way to learn more about some of the historic homes in our area and maybe get some decorating ideas! Take one, or both, of these upcoming holiday home tours and get into the holiday spirit.

Friendswood - Heritage Gardeners 47th Annual Christmas Tour of Homes
Saturday and Sunday, November 23^rd-24^th; 1pm to 5pm.

League City – League City Historical Society 2013 Historic Homes Tour
Saturday, December 14^th; from 10am to 5pm.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Winter is Coming!

Winter is coming, and with it, the unpredictable Texas temperatures we have all come to know and love. To help ease the increased burden of the holiday season’s shopping, cooking, and preparing for the visiting in-laws, we have assembled a short list of ways you can protect your yard from colder climates. A little preparation now will save you a lot of headaches and money later.

Mulching
Installing mulch promotes healthy root activity, controls weed growth, helps prevent erosion and moderates soil temperatures. This is especially important for young or recently transplanted shrubs and trees. Do this before the first freeze to insure roots are properly protected from damage.

Trimming & Pruning
Besides aesthetic appearances, pruning promotes new growth and allows plants to produce more flowers in the spring. It also creates greater ventilation in your flower beds, decreasing the probability of harmful diseases and pest infestations. Dead or damaged limbs can be trimmed at any time of the year, but heavier maintenance work should be done late fall when plants are dormant.

Local Business Recommendation
KiKi Landscaping & Construction is a family owned and operated business in League City with more than 27 years of experience in the lawn care industry. We sought their expertise for the creation of this list.

Notice: Local business owners interested in being featured in this blog are welcome to send a brief description of their company along with a topic idea.

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Written by Hank Dugie Real Estate Agent of Brockway Realty, LLC - Mr. League City

Art Dwellers Christmas Arts Market in Friendswood on November 16th

KSBJ invites all to come out to their 3rd Annual Art Dwellers and Christmas Arts Market at Stevenson Park in Friendswood, Saturday November 16th, 2013. This event runs from 10am-6pm and offers a variety of activities for everyone, including performances by aerial acrobats, the St. Thomas’ Pipe Band, Christian Dancers, The Purple Box Theatre, Sidewalk Chalk Demo and more. Many talented artists and crafters will have their art available for Christmas presents, so pack up the kids and come enjoy some free family fun!  For more details please visit http://www.ksbj.org/ksbj-events/event/art-dwellers-christmas-arts-market

By Dinah BuPane, Real Estate Agent of Brockway Realty - Friendswood Specialist

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Two “Water” Activities in League City - Saturday, November 16th

Ghiradi WaterSmart Park “Community Build”
The Ghirardi WaterSmart Park is a three acre passive park which is dedicated to teaching citizens ways to conserve their water use at home. Volunteers are needed to help build Ghiradi WaterSmart Park on Saturday, November 16, beginning at 9am. WaterSmart Park is located on Louisiana St. just south of FM518 directly across from Poppy St, League City.

The city is looking for 25 volunteers, (adults and teens), to help with this project. If younger children accompany you, please have someone available to supervise them. Due to the limited parking availability, we recommend volunteers carpool, walk, or bike (for those who live close). Children will not be allowed to play on the equipment the day of the build. A grand opening will take place at a later date.

The City Will Provide:

• Rakes, shovels and wheel barrows;

(Staff will be on site with tractors to help move material as well)

• Gloves and safety glasses;
• Minor hand tools;
• Ladders- for hanging swings or assembly of taller components;
• Cold bottled water;
• Lunch (provided by Chick-fil-A).

Volunteers Should Bring:

• Insect repellent;
• Appropriate dress for an outdoor work environment- no sandals or open toed shoes;
• Sun block Snacks- for energy;
• Other drinks, if they prefer something other than water.

Volunteers can register online at The City of League City website.

Clear Creek Paddle Race at Countryside Park
The Clear Creek Paddle Race will be held on Saturday, November 16, 10am, at Countryside Park, located at 100 Alderwood, League City. Registration will begin at 9am; awards will be presented at 11am.

All races will be approximately 5 miles in length: these races include Junior, Men & Women. Each entry fee is $10 per person for all ages. Races (all with the same start time) include:

• Solo Boats;
• Surfski;
• Stand-up Paddleboard;
• K-1 (Adult, Junior, Recreational);
• C-1 (USCA, Recreational);
• C-2 (USCA, Recreational);
• Aluminum & Recreational Canoes (Men’s, Women’s, Junior);
• OC-1;
• OC-2;
• Unlimited Solo;
• Tandem Unlimited.

Registration may be completed by filling out the online form and delivering it to the City Parks Dept. Office located at 512 Second Street, League City. For more information, contact John Orsag, City of League City Parks Dept., via email or 281.554-1156.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

One of a Kind Lot Available in Whispering Lakes Ranch in League City!

This truly will never happen again! This 1.424 acre lot is the last one remaining in the gated community of Whispering Lakes Ranch. Listed for sale at $150,000, the owners expect significant interest for not only the last lot in the subdivision, but one of the biggest. Last chance to live in a one of a kind community where all of the lots are over one acre!

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Three Bay Area Cities Rank Among Top 50 Safest Cities in Texas Report

Safewise.com recently released their blog about the top 50 safest cities in the state of Texas; three Bay Area cities made the list. Here are excerpts from the Safewise.com report.

“No community is immune to crime, so home security is important no matter where you live. But SafeWise understands that when it’s time to relocate, finding your family a city with a low crime rate is at the top of your priority list. We’re here to help. We’ve paired data from the most recent FBI Crime in the U.S. Report with our own thorough research to create a comprehensive list of the top 50 safest cities in Texas, with 20,000 residents or more, as of 2011. If you’re considering a move to the Lone Star state, you’ll find the important FBI statistics and insightful community overviews provided in this report incredibly helpful.”

“3. Friendswood
Located between the bustling metropolis of Houston and the waterfront city of Galveston, you’ll find the primarily affluent suburban city of Friendswood. Noted for its outstanding schools and good paying jobs, Friendswood is a place worth considering moving to. And the FBI’s Crime in the U.S. Report notes that in 2011, there were 331 incidents of property crime and 12 incidents of violent crime. For a city with well over 36,000 residents, those are comforting figures.

The city boasts a decidedly progressive vibe, and many of its residents are highly educated and work in the aerospace sector and the information technology field. When it’s time for a family outing, head to the park to catch live music or a movie, or make the short drive to the beach or to enjoy any number of museums, amusement parks, zoos or even a major league sport. With temperatures that rarely fall below 36°F, a family that moves to Friendswood can enjoy outdoor activities nearly all year long.”

“24. Pearland
Pearland is a Gulf Coast city located just south of Houston. Its ideal location makes it the perfect place to live for both business and pleasure, plus it has nominal crime. The FBI’s Crime Report states no arsons and less than 30 robberies were reported to law enforcement in 2011. Those who like to hit the links will be glad to know Pearland offers three golf courses, and putt-putt for the little ones. Its 107,000 square foot recreation center is the place to head for fitness and fun. In addition to the most modern exercise equipment and classes, it also provides a competition pool and a zero entry activity pool. If your family has a four-legged friend, he’ll enjoy exercising at Pearland’s dog parks. Both of its dog parks include agility courses, covered picnic areas and more. Pearland has one of the highest per capita incomes in the state, and it’s also one of the fastest growing cities in Texas. Boasting a reputation for offering newcomers a pro-growth business environment and highly motivated workforce, Pearland is one of the state’s best kept secrets.”

“31. League City
“Money” magazine named League City one of the 100 Best Small Cities in America, and it’s easy to see why. Located within the Houston-Woodlands-Sugar Land metropolitan area, League City boasts gorgeous waterfront, abundant water recreation opportunities, a historic district that has enjoyed magical revitalization and a low crime rate. According to the FBI’s Crime Report, authorities were made aware of less than 100 incidents of violent crime and 37 robberies in 2011. If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur considering a move to League City, you’ll be glad to hear that the city’s Economic Development Department provides free marketing and research services to help new businesses and startups succeed.

Just a short drive to Galveston Island, and bordered by Clear Creek and Clear Lake, newcomers who enjoy water activities will be thrilled that the League City area is the third largest pleasure boat anchorage in the United States. And birders will be excited to find out that League City is ranked in the top five birding destinations in the U.S., is home to more than 220 species of birds and is located on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.”

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

2013 Veterans Day Observances in the Bay Area

"Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good."

[To learn about the history of Veterans Day, visit the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.]

Clear Creek ISD “Salute to Armed Forces” –(Football Game) Clear Springs “Chargers” High School will play Clear Creek “Wildcats” High School on Friday, November 8, 7pm, at Veterans Memorial Stadium, 2305 East Main St., League City. All active duty, guard & reserves, and retired military – and one guest – admitted free * *Verification of affiliation, membership badge/ID, official uniform, etc. required for free admittance.

The City of League City Veterans Day Ceremony & Rededication of Hometown Heroes Park (formerly Eastern Regional Park) -The City of League City is proud to honor local veterans, servicemen and women, and their families during a special ceremony on Monday, November 11, 2013. The League City Veterans Day Ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at Hometown Heroes Park (formerly Eastern Regional Park) at 2105 Dickinson Ave. In addition to the ceremony the City will also rededicate the newly renamed Hometown Heroes Park. The City of League City invites citizens and their families to participate in this salute to heroes and park rededication. The event will be free and open to all citizens and their families.

University of Houston Clear Lake Veterans Day Celebration –On Monday, November 11^th, The University of Houston Clear Lake will host a Veterans Day Program with keynote speaker, Commander R. Eric Santos, M.D., US Navy Battalion Surgeon, US Marine Corps, Afghanistan. The program will begin at 10:30am at the UHCL Liberty Park, located at 2700 Bay Area Blvd, Houston. A static display with a Huey helicopter and vintage military vehicles will be on display; complimentary refreshments will be available at the conclusion of the program.

Veterans Day Concert with Bay Area Chorus –The 49^th Season of the Bay Area Chorus begins with MUSICAL MOMENTS~PEACE, a tribute to Veterans, in the Worship Center of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. The concert program will held on Monday, November 11, from 7:30pm to 9pm. The beauty and fabulous acoustics of Gloria Dei provide an enjoyable singing experience for audience and choirs alike. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is located at 11820 Upper Bay Road, Nassau Bay.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

The Closet Exchange Semi-Annual Children's and Maternity Consignment Sale November 7th - 9th

The Closet Exchange will be hosting their Semi-Annual Children's and Maternity Consignment sale November 7-9, 2013 at the Civic Center in League City, Texas.  Created by a mom frustrated at paying retail prices for items that experienced little to no wear, this event invites all those who are looking to consign, as well as those looking to purchase, anything from infant to teen and everything in between.  Clothes, toys, indoor/outdoor play equipment, nursery items, books, furniture and more!! Free parking, free admission. Deadline to sign up to consign is November 6, 2013. For more details please see http://theclosetexchangehouston.com/index.html.

By Dinah BuPane, Real Estate Agent of Brockway Realty - Friendswood Specialist

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

November Fall Arts & Craft Fairs in the Bay Area

Our area is home to many talented artisans and crafters, which proves evident at the fall Arts & Craft Fairs festivals hosted by cities, churches, and organizations. This blog lists many of the shows scheduled for the month of November. Admission to all these events is FREE.

NOVEMBER 1-3

• [Taylor Lake Village] 33^rd Annual Nutcracker Shoppe, Friday Nov. 1^st, 9am-5pm; Saturday, Nov. 2^nd, 9am-3pm; Taylor Lake Christian Church, 1730 Old Kirby Road.
• [League City] 18^th Annual Creative Artisans Show and Sale, Friday Nov. 1st, 9am-7pm; Saturday Nov. 2^nd, 9am-7pm; Sunday Nov 3^rd, 10am-4pm; Walter Hall Park Pavilion, 807 Hwy 3 North.
• [Clear Lake Shores] 8^th Annual Holiday Art Sale; Saturday November 2^nd, 8am-4pm; Clear Lake Shores Community Center, 931 Cedar Street.
• [League City] Bay Area Junior Women’s Club Holiday Bazaar, Saturday November 2nd, 2pm-6pm; League City Recreation Center, 400 West Walker Street.

NOVEMBER 7-9

• [Kemah] Deck the Halls Christmas Market, Thursday Nov. 7^th, 5pm-9pm; Friday Nov. 8^th, 10am-7pm; Saturday Nov. 9^th, 10am-4pm; Johnny Walker Community Center, 800 Harris Blvd (corner of Hwy 146 and FM 2094).
• [Clear Lake City] Santa’s Shopping Mall, Saturday Nov. 9^th, 9am-4pm; Clear Lake United Methodist Church, 16335 El Camino, Houston.

  NOVEMBER 14-16

• [Webster] 32^nd Annual Velvet Stocking Christmas Craft Bazaar, Thursday Nov. 14^th, 9am-7pm; Friday Nov. 15^th, 9am-5pm; Saturday Nov. 16^th, 9am-5pm; Webster Civic Center, 311 Pennsylvania.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

“Fall Back” Daylight Savings Time Ends on Sunday, November 3rd

A friendly reminder from Brockway Realty, LLC:

Daylight Savings Time will end at 2am on Sunday, November 3^rd, so don’t forget to set all your clocks back 1 hour. This is also a good time to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms and Carbon Monoxide monitors.

According to the website Timeanddate.com “To fall back suggests that one must set the clocks one hour back when DST ends. It is associated with the fall (autumn) season because the DST schedule ends in the fall. The fall season and the end of daylight saving time mark a period when the days start getting shorter, with fewer hours of sunlight. Records have shown that the phrase spring forward, fall back has been in use at least as far back as early 20th century.”

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

Friendswood's Fall Haul-A-Day at Centennial Park

On Saturday November 2, 2013 Friendswood will host their semiannual Fall Haul-A-Day clean up and garage sale at Centennial Park.  All proceeds from the items donated to Keep Friendswood Beautiful (KFB) will go towards the beautification of city facilities and parks.  KFB also accepts items that would help the wildlife rehabbers. This is a wonderful event, for more details check out the link at http://www.ci.friendswood.tx.us/index.cfm?fuseaction=content.pageDetails&id=41443&typeID=150

By Dinah BuPane, Real Estate Agent of Brockway Realty - Friendswood Specialist

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog

4th Annual J/Fest Regatta at Lakewood Yacht Club as LYC Celebrates Award

For the fourth consecutive year, The City of Seabrook is the title sponsor of the J/Fest Southwest Regatta being hosted by the Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook on Saturday, November 2^nd through Sunday, November 3^rd. Over 70 one-design J-boats from all over the country are expected to participate during the regatta, which is open to the public.

The J-boats will be racing on Galveston Bay; first gun will be at 10am on both days. Live action of the race will be shown at the Lakewood Yacht Club. An awards ceremony will be held on Sunday afternoon. Lakewood Yacht Club is located at 2425 NASA Parkway in Seabrook.

Lakewood Yacht Club Awarded “Marina of the Year”
The Marina Association of Texas (MAT) recently announced Lakewood Yacht Club had been selected as the “Marina of the Year 2013”. Lakewood’s Harbor Administrator accepted the award during the 41^st Annual MAT Conference and Trade Show.

Members of the review committee visit applicant marinas and select the one that best meets their high standards; to qualify for the award marinas must be certified a Clean Marina. Lakewood Yacht Club’s Commodore is Carl Drechsel, the Harbor Administrator is Lynda Hall, and the General Manager is Terry Chapman.

By Pam Moore, Feature Blogger for Brockway Realty

Originally Posted on Brockway Realty LLC's Official Blog